Tammy Fincher proposes another plan of attack in the battle of the bulge:

"The key is exposing children to healthier options," she said. "When the kids eat better, you'll see the parents eating better too."

(courtesy of Tammy Fincher)

Fincher serves as president of the young professionals board at the University of Alabama at Birmingham's Minority Health & Health Disparities Research Center. In 2009, the center launched the Healthy Happy Kids nutrition and physical activity program, which takes its message of health and wellness directly into city schools. Nutritionists work with children to reinforce the importance of a healthy diet and exercise - a message that also aims to rub off on parents.

"I'm passionate about serving," said Fincher, a UAB graduate. "We need to be invested in our kids."

Twice a year, nutritionists head into classrooms, transforming kids into iron chefs. Students, wearing aprons and chef hats provided by the program, are taught how to make healthy meals using common foods found around the house.

That attention to wellness is then passed on to older members of the household, Fincher said. Kids are leading by their example.

"When our kids eat well, their parents learn that lesson too," she said. "When kids are excited about being healthy, it causes parents to skip the fast food line. [Parents] will say, 'they need to see me embracing this as well.'"

And speaking of grown-ups, they're invited to the annual Casino Royale, Healthy Happy Kids' annual fundraiser. The event, set for June 6 at Workplay, will feature live music, great food, and, of course, a casino experience that would make James Bond proud.

But Fincher is quick to remind us that the battle against obesity isn't just fun and games.

"The event is not about the theme, it's about the kids. When they are stronger, we are stronger."

Edward T. Bowser is a community engagement specialist for AL.com and The Birmingham News. He's always eager for conversation. If you know of an outstanding young professional who is bringing change to Birmingham, reach him on Twitter @etbowser, visit his Facebook page or email ebowser@al.com.